Is your immune system lowered or raised in pregnancy??
I've heard conflicting things regarding this. My Acupuncturist has told me that pregnant women have very high immune systems when pregnant therefore shouldn't get very ill much in pregnancy yet others have told me you have a lowered immunity therefore easier to catch colds, flu's etc......
I'm suffering from a chest infection after a recent cold virus but just can't shake it, i've been sick now for 2 weeks (unlike me)......
What are all your thoughts?? What's the truth?? Immunity higher or lower??? I just want to know!!
I ALWAYS get sick this time of year once a year anyway so figured it's just my time to get sick!
Your immune system is suppressed during pregnancy.
Mainly so that your body does not "reject" the growing baby.
I am sure there are other reasons as well, but they escape me right now.
It's why we need to be careful of Listeria and what we eat, because our immune systems are not what they usually are and we are more likely to develop it.
Aaaaah, it's a bit of a tricky one, the immune system. It is both better and worse off during pg. Don't ask me to explain it, because I can't, it's way too complex for me, but maybe someone else will be able to
The immune system is suppressed during pregnancy. Immunity on the whole is a complex area that still isn't fully understood, especially when it comes to reproduction. But there are some mechanisms that the body has so that the sperm and then the developing baby are not rejected - one of which is suppressing the immune system somewhat so that it doesn't attack the foetus. The placenta produces immunosuppressant chemicals such as progesterone and the structure of the placenta ensures that there is no actual mixing of the mother's blood supply with that of the foetus. The lining of the vagina also ensures sperm does not come into contact with the female immune system.
The immune system isn't one single thing, it can be selectively surpressed. For example DH has had a double lung transplant and is on immunosuppressants so his body doesn't reject the new organs, but other parts of his immune system work mostly fine. E.g. I catch colds WAY more often than him normally. It depends on the type of immunosupressant being taken I guess?
During the pregnancy I'd say that my immune system has generally been stronger than prepregnancy. I've come into contact with many, many people who have been sick this winter and the most I've felt is a bit tired for a day or so (and maybe not coincidentally craving vitamin c rich foods!).
Is your immune system lowered or raised in pregnancy??
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